Fiat 500, Abarth 500 recalled in Australia – UPDATE

UPDATE: This article originally made reference to the Fiat Ducato. See bottom of article for details.

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Australia (FCA) has recalled a number of vehicles in the 2014 Fiat 500 and 2011-2014 Abarth 500 model lines.

The recall affecting 10 examples of 2014-build Fiat 500 involves a potential deviation in the heat treatment process of the seat belt buckles.

Should the vehicle be involved in a collision, there is an increased risk of occupant injury if the seat belt doesn’t function correctly.

Meanwhile, 381 of the closely-related Abarth 500 produced between 2011 and 2014 are also being recalled, for a wiring issue that may cause the failure of exterior and instrument lights.

Fiat reports that there is potential for interference of the wiring under the dashboard within the steering column, which over time can cause the wires to wear out.

If the exterior and instrument lights fail while driving at night, this is a significant hazard and increases the potential for an accident while also hindering the driver’s forward vision and information displays.

While these are Fiat’s first recalls this year, FCA has already had seven recalls in 2016 affecting Chrysler and Jeep vehicles, plus an additional recall of the Alfa Romeo Mito this week.

Owners of the affected vehicles will be notified by FCA Australia, and are urged to take their vehicle to a Fiat/Abarth dealership where the recall fixes will be conducted.

For more information customers can contact FCA Australia on 1300 133 079.

Update: This article originally also included reference to a Ducato recall, however FCA has confirmed that no Australian-market Ducato vehicles have been recalled.

It is believed there may have been an error with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s database.